Wow, what a day! Markets shot up like a rocket on April 9, 2025, and we’re here to share the scoop, plus a heads-up on taxes as the clock ticks. Grab a coffee, and let’s chat!

Markets Take Off

The S&P 500 (think SPY) jumped 11% yesterday, from $493 to $549 by close, our wallets are smiling! Why? President Trump hit pause on most tariffs for 90 days, dropping them to 10% (except China, now at 125%). After a bumpy week, this news sparked a buying spree, stocks soared and we’re feeling the buzz, but there’s likely more volatility ahead.

Tariffs: Good and Not-So-Good

This 90-day breather is a win and a chance for trade talks to cool things down. But China’s fighting back with big tariffs. Markets love a break, but we’re not out of the woods. More ups and downs could be coming.

Keep Your Eyes on the Prize

Yesterday was a blast, but long-term wins the race. The S&P’s climbed from $115 in 2003 to $549 now; dips happen, yet it keeps growing. Your investments are like a sturdy tree; shaky winds blow, but the roots hold strong. Hang tight; volatility might stick around, but we’ve got this!

Tax Tips: Sneaky Savings Before April 15!

Six days to shrink your 2024 taxes! Whether you’re a 1099 or W-2, these tricks, including a cool home hack, can stack your savings:

Augusta Rule: Rent your home, any of your homes, or space to your business for meetings, or even family gatherings, up to 14 days, tax-free! Set a fair price, jot it down, and cash in.

IRA: Pop $7,000 ($8,000 if 50+) in by Monday, tax break now, win later.

HSA: High-deductible plan? Stash $4,150 (solo) or $8,300 (family), health and tax perks.

Home Interest & Property Tax: Deduct mortgage interest (up to $750,000 debt) and property tax (max $10,000) if you itemize—home sweet deal!

1099 Gems:
✔️ Section 179: New biz gear? Deduct up to $1.16M, bam!
✔️ Oil & Gas: Well owner, deduct about 96% of the initial investment!
✔️ Pet Guard Dog: Fido guards your space? Deduct his treats/food!

W-2 Gems:
✔️ Uniform Costs: Job needs scrubs? Deduct upkeep (over 2% income)!
✔️ Tax Prep Fees: Paid to file? Claim it (over 2% income)!
✔️ Pool Rx: Doc-ordered pool? Deduct it (over 7.5% income) splash cash!

Taxes can feel like a puzzle, but we’re here to help you solve it! Contact us if you need help.

*Disclaimer: I’m not a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and this isn’t tax advice. These tips are for informational purposes only—please consult a CPA or tax professional to see what works for you.